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Understanding the Siding Installation Process: What to Expect

Replacing your home’s siding is a big investment and one that comes with many questions. What will the process look like? How long will it take? What if the weather gets in the way?
If you’re considering new siding for your Portland-area home, especially premium options like James Hardie, this guide will walk you through every step of the installation process. From prep work to final inspection, you’ll learn what to expect so your project runs smoothly and stays on budget.

james hardie siding installation in Portland Oregon

Why Understanding the Process Matters

Whether you're working with Homze or another Portland siding contractor, understanding the installation process will help you:

Reduce surprises and miscommunication
Prepare your home and family in advance
Ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget

An informed homeowner is an empowered homeowner.

Pre-Installation Phase

Every successful project starts with proper planning. During this initial phase, your contractor will:

Inspect your home’s exterior for damage, rot, or pest issues
Take precise measurements to calculate material needs
Help you choose siding materials, trim, and finishes (like ColorPlus)
Provide a detailed quote and timeline
Handle permits required by your local municipality

If you’re going with James Hardie siding, ensure your contractor is a James Hardie Preferred Installer to maintain product warranties.

Preparing Your Home for Installation

Before the crew arrives, here’s how you can help the process go more smoothly:

Clear access to your exterior walls—move patio furniture, potted plants, and other obstructions
Trim overgrown landscaping near walls and windows
Secure fragile decorations inside, as there may be some vibration from nail guns
Notify neighbors about potential noise and construction activity
This preparation allows your team to work efficiently and safely.

Step 1: Removal of Existing Siding

The first day of work typically involves removing your old siding. This can take 1–2 days depending on your home’s size.
The crew will:

Tear off the existing siding
Inspect the sheathing underneath
Dispose of materials responsibly (dumpsters are usually placed on site)

If damage is found underneath—like water rot or insect infestation—it must be repaired before the new siding goes up.

Step 2: Wall Preparation and Repairs

This is one of the most critical steps and often what separates a high-quality job from a rushed one. Your contractor will:

Replace any damaged sheathing or framing
Install rigid foam board or other insulation as needed
Apply a moisture barrier (house wrap) to protect against Portland’s rain

This layer is especially important in the Pacific Northwest climate to prevent water infiltration and mold.

Step 3: Installing New Siding

Now comes the fun part—seeing your home’s transformation.
For James Hardie siding, installation includes:

Attaching fiber cement panels with corrosion-resistant nails
Ensuring spacing for thermal expansion
Staggering boards to avoid visible seams
Cutting to precise lengths around windows, doors, and corners

Depending on the material and layout, this step typically takes 3–7 days for an average-sized home.

Step 4: Trimming, Sealing, and Painting

With the siding installed, your contractor will:

Add trim boards, soffits, and fascia
Seal joints and gaps with color-matched caulk
Paint any areas that aren’t pre-finished (ColorPlus siding may skip this step)

These final touches ensure your siding is both water-tight and picture-perfect.

Step 5: Site Cleanup and Final Inspection

Weather delays can occur—especially in winter—so it’s smart to add a few buffer days.

How to Choose a Qualified Installer in Portland

Here’s what to look for:

Licensed, bonded, and insured in Oregon
Proven experience with James Hardie installations
Excellent online reviews and before/after galleries
Transparent pricing and timelines
Clear communication from day one

Avoid unlicensed or bargain-rate crews, they often cut corners on prep or flashing, leading to future problems.

Mistakes to Avoid During Installation

Skipping wall prep or insulation
Installing siding over rotted wood
Not reviewing the contract in detail
Hiring based on price alone
Failing to confirm warranty details

These mistakes can reduce the life of your siding and cost more to fix later.

FAQs about the Siding Installation Process

1. Can I stay in my home during siding installation?

Yes! It’s noisy, but completely safe.

2. Do I need to be home during the project?

Only for the inspection and final walkthrough. The crew can work while you're away.

3. Will my landscaping be damaged?

Professionals take care to protect it. Let them know about special areas to avoid.

4. What if it rains during the project?

Work may pause for safety, but house wrap will protect your walls in the meantime.

5. How do I know the installation was done right?

Do a thorough walkthrough and request photos of any hidden work (e.g., flashing, sheathing).

6. Is James Hardie siding harder to install?

It requires more precision and skill—another reason to choose a certified contractor.

Conclusion

The siding installation process doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when you know what to expect. From the first inspection to the final walkthrough, being informed helps you get the most value and peace of mind.
Thinking about upgrading to James Hardie siding in Portland? Start with the Homze Siding Calculator or schedule a free inspection today.

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